Morphology Based Taxonomic Characterization of Three Termitomyces Species from the Marathwada Region, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Background: Termitomyces species are ecologically important termite-associated macrofungi that contribute to lignocellulose degradation and nutrient cycling. However, their diversity and taxonomic characteristics remain inadequately documented in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra, India. Aims: This study aimed to characterise and identify specimens of Termitomyces heimii, Termitomyces clypeatus, and Termitomyces microcarpus collected from the Marathwada region through detailed macro- and micromorphological examination. Methods: The three species were collected during the 2024 monsoon season from Parbhani, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, and Nanded. Field observations documented habitat, substrate, locality, pileus form, perforatorium, lamellar arrangement, stipe features, annulus, pseudorrhiza, and spore-print colour. Laboratory examination included the measurement and assessment of basidiospores, basidia, cheilocystidia, pleurocystidia, pileus cuticle, stipe tissues, and hyphal characteristics. The observed features were compared with published taxonomic descriptions to confirm species identity and evaluate morphological variation. Results: Termitomyces heimii was characterised by its large basidiomata, broad perforatorium, and persistent double funnel-shaped annulus. Termitomyces clypeatus was distinguished by its white pileus, striate margin, densely packed lamellae, and well-developed pseudorrhiza. Termitomyces microcarpus was differentiated by its small basidiomata, applanate pileus, obtuse umbo, hollow stipe, and absence of an annulus. The recorded macroscopic and microscopic characters were generally consistent with established descriptions of the respective taxa. Conclusion: The findings document three Termitomyces species in Marathwada and contribute to the regional inventory of termite-associated macrofungi. Molecular confirmation and broader ecological sampling are required to strengthen future regional taxonomic assessments.